Denim: Difference between revisions

"Selvage denim" refers to a unique type of closed selvage (derived from the Latin Salvare, meaning "to secure, to make safe") that is created using one continuous cross yarn (the [[weft]]) that is passed back and forth through the vertical [[warp (weaving)|warp]] beams. This is traditionally finished at both edgeedges with a contrastcontrasting warp, (most commonly red), which is why sometimes this type of denim is referred to as "Red Selvage". This process is only possible using a [[Shuttle loom]].

Shuttle looms weave a narrower 30 inch fabric, which is on average half the width of the more modern shuttleless [[Sulzer (manufacturer)|Sulzer]] looms (invented in 1927 by the Sulzer brothers) and thus a longer piece of fabric is required to make a pair of jeans (approximately 3 yards).{{citation needed|date=July 2012}}

To maximize yield, jeanjeans were traditionally made with a straight outseam that utilised the full width of the fabric, including thisthe edgeedges. This became not only desirable but, since the production of wider width denim, it has become a mark of premium quality as(since, when worn with a turn -up, the two selvages whereare visible ratherand do not thanform an unattractive overlocked edge).